The 10 Best Road Races in Wisconsin! By
Rachel Smith
Get some fresh Wisconsin air in your lungs, do a little stretching and prepare for some thrilling running races. From Boston Marathon qualifiers, to the more playful turkey trots, to others that feature live music and plenty of free goodies, the Badger State caters to a varied crowd of runners. There isn’t quite a better way to enjoy Wisconsin’s terrain. Here are our 10 favorites.
1. Cellcom Green Bay Marathon, Green Bay, WI
The Cellcom Green Bay Marathon is held at Lambeau Field. Choose between a 5K, half marathon, full marathon. Runners start on the outside of the stadium, fulfill their race requirements and end by taking a lap inside of historic Lambeau Field.
2. Brewers 5K, Milwaukee, WI
Join the Milwaukee Brewer’s famous race in and around Miller Park for a 5K run or walk. Earn a free t-shirt with your registration price of $30. Participants can also redeem a voucher for a Terrance Reserved ticket to select Brewer home games.
3. Brewers Mini-Marathon, Milwaukee, WI
Much like the 5K—the Brewer’s Mini Marathon is hosted at Miller Park. The Mini Marathon is a hit for marathon beginners and veterans alike. You are joined by the famous Racing Sausages for both pictures and encouragement. Run through many Milwaukee landmarks including a lap around Miller Park Field.
4. Madison Marathon, Madison, WI
Located in Wisconsin’s capitol city—the Madison Marathon takes you past Lake Monona and Lake Mendota. A free t-shirt, medal, race photos, and beer are included in the race registration fee.
5. Ice Breaker Marathon, Milwaukee, WI
The Ice Breaker Marathon is an indoor marathon held in January. There is an awards ceremony held at the end of the event to honor the top three men and women finishers. A race t-shirt and goodie bag is included in the $35 registration fee.
6. Milwaukee Running Festival, Milwaukee, WI
Now introducing a race for every runner. Race lengths start at one mile and go up to a full marathon. The race snakes through some of Milwaukee’s most beautiful neighborhoods and historic landmarks. Their full marathon is qualifier for the Boston Marathon. Early registration for races can start as low at $20!
7. Summerfest Rock ‘n Sole Run, Milwaukee, WI
Start the Summerfest festivities off by joining in the challenge. Participants get one free general admission ticket to Summerfest, a medal, t-shirt, beer, and a post race part with live music. See the city skyline, Lake Michigan, and the Henry Maier Festival Park.
8. Wisconsin Marathon, Kenosha, WI
The Wisconsin Marathon is in Kenosha, Wisconsin. The Wisconsin Marathon features a lakeside view and competitive feel. Participants receive a Big Cheese Medal, and the top three men and women finishers revive an additional prize.
9. Eau Claire 5K, Eau Claire, WI
These marathons in Eau Claire feature their city streets, bike trails, and a few river crossings. Medals are given out to those who complete the race before the time runs out. Post race refreshments and massage areas are available at the end of the race.
10. Madison Turkey Trot, Madison, WI
Trot along the beautifully laid out path along Lake Wingra and near Edgewood High School. Participants can both run and walk the 5K events as long as they finish during the allotted time. Participants often dress up in holiday attire to give the race a memorable feel.
